Multi-merchant gift registry

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a system for registering items selected by a registrant from a plurality of participating merchants for subsequent communication to a prospective purchaser. The system has a computer system that contains identifying information about the registrant. A portable input and storage device is provided that can be carried by the registrant into a plurality of participating merchants. The portable input and storage device is capable of receiving and storing information regarding gifts that the registrant desires to receive as presents. The input and storage device stores a unique identifier for the particular merchant each desired gift is from. A transfer device is provided connected to the computer system that receives the information regarding the registrant&#39;s desired gifts from the portable input and storage device and transfers the information to the computer system. Finally, a prospective purchaser interface device is provided that allows the prospective purchaser to view, sort or print a list of the gifts desired by the registrant and which particular merchant those gifts are from.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/411,433, filed on Apr. 10, 2003, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/008,647, filed on Nov. 9, 2001, nowissued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,669,088, the contents of which is incorporatedin its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bridal registries are commonly known. Traditionally, in the UnitedStates, when a couple decides to marry, they will often go to particularstores and choose certain items which they would like to receive asgifts at their wedding. The particular store registers the name of thecouple and the gifts that they have selected. The register is oftennothing more than a log book. In recent times the registry has become acomputer database that is available for interaction by a touch screen.

The current practice is to have a bridal registry or baby registry in asingle store. Multiple stores in a shopping mall may each have their ownregistries. This requires the registrants to go through the registrationprocess at each store where they wish to register. Additionally,potential purchasers must follow the current practice of enteringcertain information regarding the registrant via the interactive touchscreen at each store where the registrant is registered. This thenrequires the potential purchasers to have to wait in line to operate theregistry and get printouts at each of the multiple stores.

Currently, it is only the larger stores that can afford to have theequipment to operate an automated self service gift registry system.Consequently, many smaller stores and vendors at which the bride and thegroom or the parents of the child may wish to be registered are not ableto have their own registry system. Additionally, potential purchasersmay not like the store typically used for registries, or the potentialpurchasers may have coupons at other stores or have employee discountsat other stores. Finally, because other stores may have the same itemsthat the registrants have registered for at a lower price than the storein which the registry is located, the registry at the first store oftendoes not accurately reflect the gifts which have been purchasedelsewhere.

While this kind of self-service gift registry system has met withtremendous acceptance in the marketplace, there is a continued need fora multi-merchant registry that allows registrants to register for goodsfrom a multitude of merchants.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a system for registering items selectedby a registrant from a plurality of participating merchants forsubsequent communication to a prospective purchaser. The system has acomputer system that contains identifying information about theregistrant. A portable input and storage device is provided that can becarried by the registrant into a plurality of participating stores. Theportable input and storage device is capable of receiving and storinginformation regarding gifts that the registrant desires to receive aspresents. The input and storage device stores a unique identifier forthe particular merchant each desired gift is from. A transfer device isprovided connected to the computer system that receives the informationregarding the registrant's desired gifts from the portable input andstorage device and transfers the information to the computer system.Finally, a prospective purchaser interface device is provided thatallows the prospective purchaser to view, sort or print a list of thegifts desired by the registrant and which particular merchant thosegifts are from.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram representative of registry apparatus inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram representative of an alternate embodiment ofregistry apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram representative of a second alternateembodiment of registry apparatus in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram representative of a registry network system inaccordance with the present invention

FIG. 5 is a flow chart representation of the steps taken by a registrantuser of the registry apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart representation similar to FIG. 5 of an alternateembodiment of the steps which may be taken by a registrant user;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart representation of the steps taken by a purchaseruser of the registry apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart representation of an alternate embodiment of thesteps which may be taken by a purchaser user;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a representative printout for a purchaseruser;

FIGS. 10A-G are a series of illustrations representing screen imagesthat are displayed to a registrant user or a purchaser user;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a kiosk housing usable in accordancewith the present invention; and

FIGS. 12A-B are a flow chart representation of steps taken by aregistrant to obtain a portable bar code scanner from a housing likethat shown in FIG. 11 and return it.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a shopping mall having a gift registryapparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a kiosk housing a multi-store giftregistry and an ATM consistent with the principal of the presentinvention.

FIG. 15 is block diagram illustrating a portable scanning deviceconsistent with the principal of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a portable scanning deviceconsistent with the principal of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart illustrating a process for registering for giftsconsistent with the principal of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating a process for a guest to use a giftregistry consistent with the principal of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a universal gift registry systemconsistent with the principal of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating a process for cross sale marketingbetween a multi-store gift registry and a financial institution,consistent with the principal of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A gift registry apparatus will be described below. The apparatus will bedescribed with specific reference to a wedding gift registry but itshould be understood that it is equally applicable to a baby giftregistry or birthday gift registry. Additionally, like elements in thefigures are correspondingly identified with primed numerals.

At this time a general overview description of the preferred embodimentof the present invention will be given. This will be followed by abackground description of a gift registry apparatus, as described inSer. No. 08/132,604, abandoned. The present invention will then bedescribed in greater detail in light of the previous discussions.

The present invention is designed such that a registrant, or first user,may register for gifts from multiple merchants as opposed to the currentpractice of only registering in a single store. The present inventionwill be described with reference to an enclosed shopping mall, but itshould be noted that the gift registry apparatus could be located in akiosk adjacent a strip mall, in the side of a wall of one of thebuildings of the strip mall, or in a kiosk in its own small protectiveshelter similar to some automatic teller machines, adjacent a downtownshopping area or other like area.

The present invention is illustrated schematically in FIG. 13. FIG. 13is a top plan view of a shopping mall having a gift registry kiosksituated centrally in the mall. The gift registry system has a computersystem that contains identifying information about the registrant. Aportable input and storage device is provided that can be carried by theregistrant into a plurality of participating stores. In the preferredembodiment of the present invention the portable input and storagedevice is a hand held scanning device. The portable input and storagedevice is capable of receiving and storing information regarding giftsthat the registrant desires to receive as presents, as well asinformation necessary to identify the particular merchant which carriesa desired gift.

The input and storage device stores a unique identifier for theparticular merchant for each desired gift, as well as a uniqueidentifier for the gift itself. The unique identifiers are preferably inthe form of a bar code that is scanned in by the registrant for eachmerchant and each gift. A transfer device is provided connected to thecomputer system for receiving and transferring the information from theportable input and storage device regarding the registrant's desiredgifts and the particular merchant those gifts are from. Finally, aprospective purchaser interface device is provided that allows theprospective purchaser to view a list of the gifts desired by theregistrant and which particular merchant those gifts are from.

A gift registry apparatus is designated generally by the numeral 20 inFIG. 1. Apparatus 20 is illustrated to include computer mechanism 22 andbar code scanning mechanism 24 for obtaining Universal Product Code(UPC) information about possible gift items. The UPC information allowsthe computer mechanism to categorize products or, in this case,potential gift items, so that a gift buyer can have the option ofobtaining a list of gifts of a particular category.

The scanning mechanism 24 includes not only the bar code readingfeature, but also a mechanism for transferring the information tocomputer mechanism 22. Bar code scanning mechanism 24 includes a barcode scanner 40 and may include a holder 44 with a locking mechanism 46which unlocks only when a card reader 36 has appropriately read amagnetically encoded card, such as a credit card. Holder 44 may includea transfer device 45 which reads the memory of bar code scanningmechanism 24 for communication to a computer 26. The various electricalconnections and locking/unlocking mechanism for use with the bar codescanning mechanism are conventional.

It is noted that scanning mechanism 24 is a key feature of anarrangement which may also include a card reader 36 which functions as akey to unlock scanning mechanism 24 as discussed in more detailhereinafter. Such arrangement allows the registrant (also called thefirst user) to browse among possible gift items to identify a group ofthe items which are desired as gifts. After registration is completed bya registrant, although a potential gift purchaser may not personally usethe scanning mechanism 24 as a part of the arrangement which allows thepotential gift purchaser to browse among the group of items selected bythe registrant to identify a particular one of the group for purchase,it is likely that a store clerk will scan bar codes or otherwise obtainnecessary information for transfer to computer mechanism 22 regardingitems purchased.

Computer mechanism 22 includes a printer 34 and computer 26, as well asan interface mechanism 28 which comprises a monitor 30 and a touchscreen 32. Computer mechanism 22 also includes software (not shown).Computer 26 preferably has a modem 37 for communication with a centralprocessing mechanism as described more fully with respect to FIG. 4.Alternatively, modem 37 could connect to a network or to a mainframe. Akeyboard port 38 is available on computer 26 to provide variousservicing functions.

The software includes a first mechanism for receiving the firstinformation about the registrant user and a second mechanism forreceiving the second information about possible gift items. The softwarealso includes a mechanism for associating the first and secondinformation. In addition, the software includes a mechanism forobtaining the first and second information which has been associatedtogether.

Computer mechanism 22 and bar code scanning mechanism 24 in conjunctionwith the software preferably further include a mechanism for verifyingby the registrant that the items on which information has been enteredare those desired by the registrant as a result of being able to reviewat least some of the information obtained from scanning the bar codes.The verifying mechanism includes a display mechanism 212 (see FIG. 11)which is a part of or mounted on the bar code scanner 40.

A kiosk representative of a housing 200 appropriate for containing thevarious mechanisms is depicted in FIG. 11. The computer terminalmechanism is not visible, but is contained within the housing. Monitor30 with touch screen 32 is located approximately 3½ feet above theground at an incline approximately perpendicular to the line of sight ofa 5′8″ person's eyes. An access opening 202 for card reader 36 (notshown) is provided. Bar code scanner 40 is held on a transfer device 45in a compartment 204 having a sliding door 206. Preferably a sensor (notshown) would sense when bar code scanner 40 is physically present on thetransfer device 45. Preferably, there would also be sensors (not shown)which would sense when door 206 is open and when door 206 is closed. Thesensors would provide triggering signals with respect to screensappearing on the monitor to instruct the user. Appropriate sensors andsensing circuits are known by those skilled in the art.

Kiosk 200 is also useful for dispensing gift certificates. Whenfunctioning to dispense a gift certificate, the certificate is dispensedat opening 208. Likewise, printouts requested as part of the giftregistry are also dispensed from opening 208. Thus, with the twofunctions possible using the same housing 200, it is possible to providea reward in the form of a gift certificate to the gift registryregistrant as an acknowledgement for using the apparatus. The giftcertificate function is more fully explained in U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,174,herein incorporated by reference. Bar code scanner 40 is portable andpreferably, although not required, includes a keyboard 210 and an LCDscreen 212. The keyboard can be used to enter the identification numberor an equivalent UPC number of a bar code which does not scan. Thekeyboard can also be used to enter purchase information after apurchaser makes a purchase. As indicated, the LCD screen is availablefor immediate verification that the correct bar code was scanned withrespect to the item desired. An acceptable portable bar code scanner forthis apparatus is Symbol Model LDT 3805. The particularly novelcharacteristic of apparatus 200 is that it allows the gift registrysystem to be a complete self-service system up to the point of purchaseof a gift by the second user or gift buyer.

With respect to the gift registrant taking the portable bar code scannerto browse the store, a preferred form of security is that the registrantwould provide a credit card to opening 202 to be read. Credit on thecredit card account would be checked and a predetermined sum, forexample $200, would be debited to the account before releasing thescanner. When the account was verified, credit found to be available,and the debit made, door 206 would either automatically open or, atleast, would unlock and a prompt would appear on the monitor for theregistrant to open the door and take the scanner. When door 206 wassensed to be open, another prompt could appear on the monitor for theregistrant to take the bar code scanner 40. When it was sensed that thebar code scanner was no longer present, door 206 would automaticallyclose and lock or the registrant would be prompted to close the door.After the registrant had completed use of the scanner 40, either anappropriate indication would be made on a menu at monitor 30 or thecredit card could once again be inserted and read, whereupon appropriatemenus would instruct the registrant to open door 206 and place scanner40 properly on the charging stand and transfer device 45. The physicalpresence of scanner 40 would be sensed. An appropriate communicationwould be made between the terminal computer or the central processingcomputer and the scanner to verify that it was placed properly. Door 206would then automatically close or a prompt would be given for theregistrant to close the door. When the door was sensed to be closed, thecredit card account would be credited an equal amount as the earlierdebit, and the registrant would be informed of such action and thankedfor registering gifts in the registry.

Alternatively, the portable bar code scanner is in the possession of theretail store. In this case, when a registrant wishes to register giftsin the registry apparatus, a store clerk requires, for example, cash, acredit card, driver's license, or something equivalent as security forgiving the bar code scanner to the registrant user.

After the user has initiated apparatus 20 by entering first informationon themselves in the computer, they walk around the store with the barcode scanner. Second information obtained from the bar codes scanned onthe desired items, is communicated to the computer. In this regard, asshown in FIG. 2, bar code scanner 40′ with memory/storage preferablyincludes a transmitter 52 which through radio, infrared, or otherelectromagnetic frequencies sends encoded information to receiver 54 fordownloading to computer 26′. Other elements of apparatus 20′ are similarto those of apparatus 20, for example, printer 34′, monitor 30′ andtouch screen 32′. Alternatively, the communication mechanism could beremovable storage media 42, for example, a commonly known floppy disk,which could be removed from the scanner and inserted in retrievingmechanism 48 in the computer, such as the usual floppy disk receivingslot and related mechanism.

A further alternative is shown in FIG. 3. Bar code scanner 40″ includesa modem 56 or is connected to a modem as part of a transfer device (like45). Modem 56, in a conventional fashion, connects through a publictelephone channel to modem 37″ of computer 26″. Apparatus 20″ is alsolikely to include some or all of the other elements of apparatus 20,such as printer 34″, monitor 30″, and touch screen 32″.

Apparatus 20″ is an interesting embodiment in that conceivably bar codescanner 40″ could be located in the first user's home. Appropriate firstinformation on the user could be entered into computer 26″ in variousways, such as through a home personal computer with a modem connectionto the store computer, by orally giving the first information over thetelephone to a person entering it into the store computer 26″, or by thefirst user entering the first information into computer 26″ when thefirst user registrant is visiting the store. In any case, the storecould send a catalog to perspective users. The catalog, as well asshowing various items available, could include bar codes for thoseitems. In that way, the bar code scanner could be used to scan bar codesof interest in order to enter appropriate second information asindicated via apparatus 20″. The second information would be sent tocomputer 26″ via the connection which can be made between the modems.Likewise, a shopper second user could select a gift from the catalog andcommunicate appropriate information, including the second informationobtained from scanning the bar code, via the connection between themodems. In the usual way that business is conducted with respect tocatalog sales, the gift item would be sent to the shopper second user.

In the preferred of these various embodiments, with reference to FIG. 1,computer 26 is an IBM PC or compatible computer with at least 2megabytes of dynamic memory. Monitor 12 is a standard Super VGA Monitorcapable of displaying 640.times.480 pixels at 256 colors per pixel.Touch screen 14 is an Elographics Intellitouch model 4001 SurfaceAcoustic Wave Touch Screen with Touch Screen Controller. Card reader 16is a Magtek Swipe M % 211232 magnetic card reader connected to computer26 through an RS232 line. Laser printer 36 is a Canon LBP4 laserprinter. Modem 42 is a 9600 Baud Multitec 10 Model MT 1432 errorcorrecting modem. Bar code scanner 40 is a Symbol model 3805.

Holder 44 functioning as a transfer device is a Symbol CBM 38bb CradleBase Module. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, transmitter 52 is a Symbolmodel LRT3805, while receiver 54 is a Symbol Spectrum 1 radio frequencynetwork. All these items are commercially available as is known to thoseskilled in the art.

Gift registry apparatus 20 operates independently as shown in FIGS. 1-3,or within a network as shown in FIG. 4. Network 58 provides for numerousapparatuses 20 depicted in the form of branch computers 60 with bar codescanners 62. Apparatuses 20.1 through 20.N are connected as known tothose skilled in the art through public telecommunications channel 64 toa central processing computer 66. Alternatively, they could be connectedto central processing computer through a Local Area Network (LAN) orWide Area Network (WAN). Central processing computer 66 is connected toa printer 68 for printing various transactions, as desired. In apreferred embodiment, central processing computer 66 could be a PCcompatible computer and printer 68 is a laser printer of the typeindicated hereinbefore. With a network 58, the registrant first user caninput first and second information in any of the fashions indicated withrespect to any of the terminal computer mechanisms 20.1 to 20.N. Theassociation of the first and second information can take place in aparticular computer mechanism 20.N or it can take place in the centralprocessing computer 66. Regardless of where the association occurs, theassociated information is stored in the memory or available storage ofcentral processing computer 66. In that way, any one of computingmechanisms 20.N can be accessed by a second user in order to obtain theassociated first and second information as desired.

It is noted that network 58 can also access a credit card authorizationcomputer 70 in a known fashion through public telephone channels 64.This may be desirable to validate particular registrants, and asindicated, is useful in debiting an account as security for the bar codescanner with a subsequent credit when the scanner is returned.

Flow charts depicting a registrant user's use of the gift registryapparatus are shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. With reference to FIG. 5, theregistrant approaches the gift registry apparatus and as indicated atbox 72, the registrants enter first information about themselves. Thegift registry apparatus as indicated at box 74 receives the firstinformation and provides either on the monitor or by printout a uniqueidentification number and a password for the particular registrant.Alternatively, the registrant could be given an option of providing apassword. The identification number enables association of first andsecond information. The password is needed so that the informationcontained in the registry apparatus which is relevant to the particularregistrant can only be modified by someone who knows the password.Accumulated information can be accessed by any potential gift giver whosimply knows the name of the registrant.

As indicated at box 76, the registrant obtains the identification numberand password and requests the bar code scanner. In the presentlydiscussed embodiment, the store retains control of the bar code scanner,so that as indicated at box 78, it is the store which provides the barcode scanner to the registrant upon request. As indicated at box 80, theregistrant then scans the identification number in the form of a uniquebar code and walks about the store scanning bar codes of desired giftitems to obtain second information. Alternatively, the identificationnumber could be provided to the bar code scanner by the computer throughthe transfer device or could be manually entered at the scannerkeyboard. When the registrant has completed scanning the bar codes ofall the items which they may wish to receive as gifts, as indicated atbox 82, the registrant returns the scanner to a store clerk. The storeclerk, as indicated at box 84, places the scanner in the transfer deviceso that the second information can be downloaded to the computer. Asindicated at box 86, the gift registry apparatus receives the secondinformation and, as indicated at box 88, it associates the first andsecond information together. As indicated at box 89, the gift registryapparatus can be on-line to databases which include UPC data and currentprices.

The flow charts of FIGS. 12A and 12B depict an alternative to the storeproviding the bar code scanner to the registrant (see also FIG. 11).Just as indicated at box 72 in FIG. 5, the first step, as indicated atbox 214 is for the registrant to enter first information aboutthemselves. As indicated at box 216, the first information is receivedby apparatus 20 and a prompt given for the registrant to supply a creditcard or other appropriate unlocking mechanism. At box 218, theregistrant passes the magnetic card through the card reader. At box 220,the account represented in the information read from the card isvalidated and, assuming that there is credit available, a hold is placedagainst a predetermined amount of credit as security for the bar codereader. In the preferred embodiment, as indicated at box 222, the uniqueidentification number is transmitted to the bar code scanner. Then, atbox 224, the door 206 is unlocked and registrant is prompted to open it.As indicated at box 226, the registrant opens the door. At box 228,apparatus 20 senses that the door is open and prompts registrant to takethe scanner. As indicated at box 230, registrant takes the scanner,closes the door according to instructions, and acknowledges that thescanner has been taken. At box 232, the door is locked. At box 234, itis indicated that the registrant is then free to browse among possiblegift items and scan bar codes for second information. The flow chart ofFIG. 12A, as described, corresponds with the flow chart of FIG. 5inclusive of boxes 72-80.

The flow chart depicted in FIG. 12B relates to the registrant returningthe bar code scanner and having a credit placed against the debit whichwas earlier posted to the credit card account. As indicated at box 236,registrant first identifies or registers a desire to return the scanner.At box 238, the door 206 of compartment 204 is unlocked and theregistrant is prompted to open the door and return scanner. Depending onthe construction of housing 200, door 206 may automatically open andclose as appropriate or there may be prompts for the registrant tophysically open and close the door. At box 240, registrant replaces thescanner. At box 242, replacement of the scanner is sensed and apparatus20 makes a communication with the scanner to insure that it has beenproperly placed for recharging and downloading of second information.The door is either automatically closed or a prompt is given to theregistrant to close the door. At box 244, the hold that was placedagainst the credit card account is removed. At box 246, the registrantis thanked and monitor 30 reverts to the welcome screen. At box 248,apparatus 20 downloads the second information from the scanner to theappropriate computer for association with other accumulated informationregarding that registrant. The flow chart of FIG. 12B corresponds withthe inclusive boxes of 82-86 in FIG. 5. The subsequent portion of FIG. 5is still appropriate. In that regard, rather than the monitor revertingto the welcome screen, it may allow the registrant to review theaccumulated information for any changes. Based on the indicated methodof FIGS. 12A and 12B, the computer terminal is programmed appropriatelyand present screens such as those shown in FIGS. 10F and 10G.

The procedure discussed thus far is sufficient for a useful giftregistry system. With references to FIGS. 7 and 8, a gift buyer couldnow approach the system and obtain desired information as indicated inthe flow charts of FIGS. 7 and 8. Nevertheless, there are furtheradvantageous steps available. It is desirable, as indicated at box 90 ofFIG. 5, that the registrant reviews the associated first and secondinformation for correctness. If there is incorrect information or if theregistrant wishes to delete certain information or enter newinformation, the apparatus may be again accessed by using theidentification number and password and making appropriate changes. Afterthe review and any changes have been made, the gift registry apparatusreceives an indication from the registrant that the review has been madeand completed. As indicated at box 92, it is then possible to optionallyreward the registrant for taking the time and trouble to provide allthis information to the gift registry apparatus of a particular store.The apparatus can be made capable to provide the reward to theregistrant in the form of a store gift certificate, which may bepre-printed, or credit for a more general gift certificate selection asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,174. As indicated at box 94, theregistrant receives the gift certificate and can thereafter redeem it ina usual fashion.

The flow chart of FIG. 6 has many similarities to that of FIG. 5, butthere are also significant differences. As indicated at box 72′, theregistrant registers first information about themselves. As indicated atbox 74′, the gift registry apparatus receives the first information andprovides the unique identification number. As indicated at box 76′, theunique identification number is obtained. Then, as indicated at box 96,the registrant obtains the bar code scanner as otherwise indicatedherein. The registrant, as indicated at box 80′, then scans the uniqueidentification number in bar code form and walks the store scanning barcodes of desired gift items to obtain second information. The registrantfinally, as indicated at box 98, returns the bar code scanner to theholder so that, as indicated by broken line 100 leading to box 102, thesecond information can be transferred from the transfer mechanism of theholder to the gift registry apparatus. Alternatively, as indicated bysolid line 101, the second information can be transmitted by radiofrequency to the gift registry system and the bar code scanner thenreturned to its holder. As indicated at box 88′, the apparatusassociates the first and second information. As with the earlierdescribed procedure, the present procedure could be ended with box 88′.As indicated in FIG. 6, however, there are further advantageousalternatives. The gift registry apparatus network can be in on-linecommunication to databases which include current Universal Product Code(UPC) data, as well as current prices. Such information when associatedwith the first and second information of the registry then allows theregistry apparatus to categorize desired gift items by price or pricerange so that potential gift buyers can obtain price information or canobtain desired gifts of a certain price range. Additionally, the priceinformation can be continually updated and, consequently, kept currentwith the information that is in the databases. The on-line communicationis indicated at box 104. Additionally, as previously indicated immediatecommunication in conjunction with a bar code scanner having an LCDdisplay 212 (see FIG. 11) can provide information on the displayimmediately after the bar code of a particular item has been scanned sothat the user can verify from the information displayed whether thecorrect bar code was scanned and entered.

As with the procedure of FIG. 5, as indicated at box 90′, it is alsodesirable to have the registrant review the associated first and secondinformation, and perhaps price information. As indicated at box 92′, thegift registry apparatus receives the review indication and prints orotherwise dispenses a gift certificate. As indicated at box 94′, theregistrant receives the gift certificate. In a somewhat differentprocedure than indicated with respect to FIG. 5, as indicated at box106, the registrant could after receiving the gift certificate provideany changes to the first and second information so that as indicated atbox 108, the gift registry apparatus would at that time receive thechanges.

The procedure for using the gift registry apparatus which is followed bypotential gift buyers is shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. With reference to FIG.7, a gift buyer first approaches the gift registry apparatus, and asindicated at box 110, identifies the registrant. Identifying theregistrant may be done using encoded registry cards, as disclosed inApplicant's co-pending application entitled “A Method and Apparatus forProviding Registry Cards”, the disclosure of which has been incorporatedherein by reference, or through a touch screen menu system as describedabove. There can be further verification steps, such as also identifyingthe wedding date or the future spouse's name. As indicated at box 112,the gift registry apparatus provides access to the gift buyer so thatthe gift buyer can obtain associated first and second information. Asindicated at box 114, the gift buyer is given various menu options fromwhich to select information for printing. As indicated at box 116, whenan appropriate option has been selected, the gift registry apparatusprints the selected information. As indicated at box 118, the potentialgift buyer receives the printout, walks the store and selects desiredgifts, and then checks the gifts purchased on the printout or has thestore clerk identify the gifts purchased so that, as indicated at box120, the store clerk can update information in the gift registryapparatus. The update may be done at a terminal located in the storeaccessible to the clerk or could be located at a remote site whereinsomeone receiving the appropriate gift purchase information could do theupdate. In any case, as indicated at box 122, the gift registryapparatus receives the updated information and associates it with thefirst and second information.

A representative printout as referenced at box 118 is shown in FIG. 9.The printout indicates the names of the people getting married and theirwedding date or other information such as the parents name and/or dateof birth and/or the baby's name for baby showers. It further indicatesthe registrant identification number, which is the same as the numberdiscussed hereinbefore. Then, the printout 119 preferably includesseveral columns, such as, the number of the particular gifts “wanted”and “received”. The printout as shown also includes the item number ofthe particular gift as assigned by the gift registry apparatus relativeto all the rest of the desired gifts by the registrant. In the exampleshown, the item number is eighteen. Then, preferably, there is a columnproviding a space wherein the gift buyer or the store clerk wouldindicate with a check mark or with a number, the fact of purchase or thenumber of items of that particular gift purchased by the gift buyer.There is preferably a description column and also a UPC number column.In any case, by using a printout of this general type, a physical recordof items purchased can be maintained until someone can update theinformation in the gift registry apparatus to show that the particulargift has been purchased.

An alternative procedure is shown in FIG. 8. The gift buyer identifiedthe registrant at box 110′. The gift registry apparatus, as shown at box112′ provides access to the gift buyer in order that the gift buyer canobtain associated first and second information. As shown at box 114′,the gift buyer selects appropriate information for printing. As shown atbox 116′, the selected information is printed. As shown at box 124, thegift buyer receives the printout, selects desired gifts, and he/she or astore clerk uses a bar code scanner to scan bar codes of items purchasedto obtain third information. In this regard, in an advanced system, thestore clerk could use the same bar code scanning mechanism that is usedin checking items at the purchase counter for payment. For example,there may be a code to enter or a button to touch which would initiate asoftware routine allowing receipt of the third information simultaneouswith other use of the information with respect to check-out. The thirdinformation would be transferred as appropriate to the central computerof apparatus 20. To provide appropriate information, the identificationnumber would be scanned or entered. Then the third information includingthe bar code or other identifying information of the item and thequantity of the particular item purchased is entered. Depending on theprogramming, the third information is then appropriately communicatedand by using the identification number is associated with otheraccumulate information. As indicated at box 130, the gift registryapparatus receives the third information and, as indicated at box 132,the third information is associated with the first and secondinformation.

Alternatively, the third information can be transmitted by radiofrequency as discussed hereinbefore directly from the bar code scannerto the computer terminal and immediately associated with the first andsecond information. Such procedure is indicated by the solid arrow 134extending from box 124 to box 130.

Gift registry apparatus 20 is programmed as known to those skilled inthe art based on the representative screens of FIGS. 10A-G. Particularbranch computers 60 (see FIG. 4) use a DOS operating system, areprogrammed with C++ program language, and make use of dBase database orSQL files for data storage. The central processing computer 66 uses anOS/2 operating system.

With reference to FIGS. 10A-G, as indicated at box 136, the first screenof the program welcomes a user to the “XYZ Gift Registry”. The user isgiven the option of accessing the “registry” or proceeding with“registration”. The instruction is given to touch one of the regionsindicated.

Most screens include an option for the user to request “help” and willnot be further discussed.

If the user touches “registration”, then the screen represented by box138 appears. The registrant user is given the opportunity to selectbetween the options of “new registration”, “update previousregistration”, “release bar code scanner”, or “return bar code scanner”.

Beginning with box 138, most screens in addition include the option oftouching a region entitled “previous screen”, which if touched, wouldresult in the previous screen appearing so that the user could thenproceed in accordance with the previous screen. Since this option isalso available on most screens except the final processing and thank-youscreens, it also will not be any further discussed.

If “new registration” is touched, control proceeds to screen 140. Screen140 provides the registrant user the option of providing informationrelating to “wedding date”, “bride's name”, or “groom's name”. If thebride's name or the groom's name is selected, control proceeds to thescreen represented by box 142. It is understood that box 142 isrepresentative with respect to different screens for the groom and forthe bride as appropriate. In any case, the registrant user now has theoption to provide information relating to name, address, city, state,zip code, day time phone and evening phone. When all the information hasbeen provided, there is the additional option of touching the regionidentified by the word “done”. In that way, control can proceed afterall information is entered back to box 140. Depending on the item ofinformation to be provided, control proceeds from box 142 to box 144 sothat the appropriate information can be entered. The information to beentered is identified in the space marked “variable”. As information isentered by depressing either numbers or letters, the appropriateinformation appears following the colon after the variable information.There may also be space and erase or backspace options. When all theinformation for the particular variable has been entered, the registrantuser touches “done” and control returns to box 142. After the bride'sname and the groom's name information has been entered or if the weddingdate option is selected, control proceeds as indicated by a bubble “B”to box 146 shown in FIG. 10B. Again, the registrant user is presentedwith options for providing information, such as, wedding date, location,city, state, shower date number 1, and shower date number 2. Dependingon the option selected, control either proceeds to box 148 or to box 144as indicated by bubble “C”. If control proceeds to box 144, then on thetouching of “done”, control will return to box 146. Assuming controlproceeds to box 148, the variable “wedding month” is indicated and theoption of the various 12 months is provided. When one of the months istouched, the month will appear following the colon. There is an optionto touch “month not determined”. After one of the months or the monthnot known option is touched, control proceeds to the screen representedby box 150. Alternatively, there is also the option to touch “done”whereupon, control returns to box 146. At the screen represented by box150, the registrant user is shown the variable “wedding date” and isprovided the option of touching dates ranging from one to the totalnumber of days in the particular month of the wedding month previouslyselected. If a date has not yet been determined, that option is alsoprovided. There is further the option to touch “done” whereupon controlreturns to box 146. If a date is provided or if the date not determinedis touched, control proceeds to the screen represented by box 152. Box152 displays the variable “wedding year” and the registrant user isgiven the option of selecting from among various years. After a year hasbeen touched, control returns to box 146 as indicated by bubble “B”.Additional information can be provided until all appropriate informationis provided for box 146. At that point, the registrant user touches“done” and control will go to a screen (not shown) which thanks theregistrant user for providing the information and can give as manyinstructions as are deemed desirable in order to teach the registrantuser what to do next in completing the procedures of FIGS. 5 or 6.

If the registrant at the screen represented by box 138 touches “updateprevious registration”, then control proceeds as shown by bubble “E” tothe screen represented by box 172 in FIG. 10E. Screen 172 requests theregistrant's number and password and provides appropriate regions inwhich to touch letters or numbers until the entire registrant number andpassword is shown following the colon. At that point, the registranttouches “done” and, if the number and password are correct, controlproceeds to the screen represented by box 174. If either is incorrect, ascreen could appear which tells the user that the number or password isincorrect and that the user will be given another chance to enter them.At that point, screen 172 would reappear. If the incorrect number orpassword were entered again, control would revert to the welcome screenof box 136.

The screen represented by box 174 provides a series of options whichidentify items of information requiring correction. The registranttouches one of the items, and control proceeds to an appropriate screensuch as might be found in FIGS. 10A or 10B. If the option selected is a“gift listing”, then control would proceed to a screen like that of box176. After all items requiring correction have been corrected, theregistrant touches “done” and a screen thanking the registrant couldappear before control reverts to the welcome screen of box 136.Additionally, there could be an intermediate screen which not onlythanked the registrant, but explained that a gift certificate was beingpresented to them for completing the registration task. While the screenwas available for viewing, the gift certificate could be printed orotherwise dispensed. Alternatively, a credit could be registered, andthe registrant could be given a capability of accessing a giftcertificate dispensing routine of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,243,174.

At box 176, the registrant is given the option to “delete gift” or“change quantity of gift”. Regardless of which option is selected,control proceeds to the screen of box 178 where the appropriate giftnumber is entered. On completion of entry, “done” i is touched. If theoption was to delete the gift, control would then revert to box 174. Ifthe option was to change quantity of gift, then control proceeds to thescreen represented by box 180. At box 180, a new quantity for the giftis entered. Thereafter, “done” is touched and control reverts to box174.

As indicated, after all information requiring correction has beencorrected, “done” is touched at box 174 and control either immediatelyreverts to the welcome box 136 or does so after providing a giftcertificate as discussed, depending on the option of the system.

If the user who approaches the gift registry apparatus touches“registry” on the first screen as represented by box 136, controlproceeds as indicated at bubble “A” to box 154. The potential gift useris given the option to touch “bride's name” or “groom's name”. Controlthen moves to screen 156 or alternatively to screen 158. The screenrepresented by box 156 provides the option of touching the date of thewedding. In addition, options to scroll to earlier or later dates isalso provided. When a date has been touched, control proceeds to box 158where the bride's or groom's last name is requested and an alphabet isprovided so that letters can be touched and the name typed. When thename is completed, the user touches “done” and control proceeds to thescreen represented by box 160. Since the last name has been provided in158, box 160 provides a series of names in the registry which areidentical to or similar to the name provided by the user. The user thenhas the ability to see the first name and perhaps a middle initial. Theuser can then more positively identify the name of the person who ispresumably known to the user. The screen also provides the capability toscroll up or down so that more names can be viewed. After a name hasbeen touched, control proceeds to the screen represented by box 162. Box162 allows the user to confirm the wedding of interest by touching “yes”or “no”. The box shows the name of the bride, the name of the groom, andthe date of the wedding. If “no” is touched, control reverts to box 154.If “yes” is touched, control proceeds as indicated by a bubble “D” tobox 164 shown in FIG. 10D. The screen represented by box 164 gives thepotential gift giver user the option to select from among variousclassifications of gifts or all registered gifts or gifts having acertain price maximum or range or some other similar option. The screenalso provides the option to scroll up or down to view more options. Whena particular option has been touched, control proceeds to the screenrepresented by box 166. Box 166 shows the gift items desired by theregistrant for the particular category selected. The screen preferablyincludes the number of a particular gift wanted and also the numberalready purchased. In that way, the potential gift giver can moreknowledgeably select an appropriate gift. The screen also provides theability to scroll up or down. The screen provides the user the option totouch “print registry” or “print page”. If the print registry option isselected, all gifts in the registry for the particular registrant areprinted. If the option to print the page is selected, then all giftswhich can be accessed by scrolling up or down on that particular screenare printed. If the user does not want to print, the option “help” canbe touched. A “help” routine is not provided herein, but could easilyinclude the option to terminate use of the registry so that controlwould revert to the welcome screen represented by box 136. Assuming aprint option is selected, control proceeds to a screen represented bybox 168. Box 168 simply indicates the amount of time still needed tocomplete the printing job. Screen 168 requires no action on the part ofthe user, but rather is informational to the user. After the time hasexpired so that the printing is completed, control proceeds to thescreen represented by box 170. Box 170 thanks the user and instructsher/him to take the printed gift list, use it and return it to a cashierwhen a purchase is made. Screen 170 remains visible for a predeterminedtime and then control reverts to the welcome screen represented by box136.

In a case when a registrant has the capability of taking the bar codescanner from a kiosk housing, the registrant is greeted as indicated bythe welcome screen 136. The registrant presses registration and screen138 appears. If it is a new registration, the new registration portionof screen 138 is pressed and the various screens relating to registeringas earlier described appear. Similarly, a registrant can update aprevious registration. Of interest at the moment, is the self-servicefeature which allows the registrant to take the portable bar codescanner. With this in mind, the registrant presses “release bar codescanner”. As indicated by the circle “F”, the next screen is representedat box 250 in FIG. 10F. Screen 250 prompts the registrant to insert acredit card. It indicates that a debit will be placed against the creditcard account as security for the scanner, but that a credit will begiven when the scanner is returned. After that is done, at box 252, ascreen is indicated to instruct the registrant to open the door andremove the scanner. At box 254, the registrant is instructed to closedthe door and touch a key to acknowledge. At box 256, the monitor canprovide whatever instructions are appropriate. The present screen simplyindicates to the registrant that she/he/they are now free to scan barcodes of items which they wish to receive as gifts. They are given thefurther instruction on how to return the scanner and receive credit. Asindicated with the circle “A”, control then reverts to the welcomescreen 136.

When the registrant is ready to return the scanner, the “registration”portion of welcome screen 136 is again touched. At screen 138, “returnbar code scanner” is touched. Control then reverts as indicated atcircle “G” to the representative screen shown in FIG. 10G. At box 258,the registrant is instructed to insert a credit card. The furtherinstruction is given to use the same card as was used when the scannerwas earlier taken so that the proper account can be credited for thescanner return. At box 260, the registrant is instructed to open thedoor and replace the scanner. After apparatus 20 senses that the scannerhas been properly replaced, the registrant at box 262 is instructed toclose the door. When the door is sensed to have been closed, at box 264,the registrant is told that the credit card account has been creditedand is thanked for using the gift registry. Control then again revertsto the welcome screen.

It is understood that the various screens presented are representativeand that more or less information may be provided. It is furtherunderstood that fewer or more options may be made available to the userin accordance with the previously disclosed procedures to provide thefull capability contemplated by the system.

The present invention is illustrated schematically in FIG. 13. FIG. 13is a top plan view of a shopping mall having a gift registry kiosk 200situated centrally. The gift registry kiosk 200 is of the typepreviously described with reference to FIGS. 1-12. Accordingly, the samefigures and element numbers will be used for the description of thepresent invention. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention,the specific components used are commercially available and are known tothose skilled in the art. Examples of the specific components have beenpreviously identified above. In addition to the description of thespecific components previously described, other alternative arrangementsof a gift registry kiosk 200 are also contemplated by the presentinvention. For example, instead of using the UPC code to identifydesired gifts, any encoding scheme for entering a value representativeof a particular item of merchandise could be used. In the case of thelocking mechanism, it is possible to trigger the locking mechanism bythe computer system instead of by a bar code swipe. It is also possible,for example, to accept in addition to credit cards, debit cards or evencash and then issue refund check to cover the deposit amount forchecking out the scanner.

Each of the merchants which are participating in the gift registrysystem are identified by a reference number, as illustrated in FIG. 13.Preferably these merchants would identify themselves with identificationsigns in the windows of their stores, if they have stores, and also byidentification signs on the kiosk 200 itself. Identification signs foreach merchant may be placed, for instance, in signage area 301, asillustrated in FIG. 11.

The present invention will be described with particular reference tostores as opposed to merchants. The term store is used for ease ofunderstanding the invention and for making the written text easier toread. It is understood that the present invention is equally applicableto vendors who do not have a “store”. For instance, there are oftentimes many merchants who have small booths, stands or kiosks in ashopping mall that are not actually stores, with four walls as peoplehave come to use the term. Additionally, participating merchants may beonly available through catalogs, as will be described below. These othermerchants are understood to be included when the term store is used.

Bar code scanner 40, as previously described, is portable. This allowsthe registrant to carry scanner 40 from store to store. As theregistrant enters a participating store, scanner 40 identifies whichparticular store the registrant is in by a unique store identifier code.This may be done by scanning in a bar code that is on the doorway ofeach participating store or printed on a printout provided to theregistrant from the kiosk or from a web site with scanner 40, The storemay be selected by manually entering a code number for each store viakey board 210 or it may be done remotely. For instance, each scanner mayhave a small receiver (not shown) inside it. As a registrant enters eachparticipating store hey typically walk through a security system. Thissecurity system may be set up to transmit an identifying signal eachtime someone walks through the door. This identifying signal may bereceived by the receiver in scanner 40 and recorded. By recording aunique store identifier, the gift registry system will know which giftscome from which store.

Once the registrant has scanned in each gift that is desired from theparticipating stores, scanning device 40 is placed back in transferdevice 45 which reads the memory of bar code scanning mechanism 24 forcommunication to computer 26. It would also be possible to have atransfer device in each store, such that when a registrant was about toleave a store, they would insert the scanner into transfer device 45 anddownload the gifts selected from that store. This information would thenbe remotely transmitted to the computer in kiosk 200. From this pointon, the gift registry system operates the same as previously described,with the exception that when the information is printed out for aprospective purchaser, the particular store that each gift is located inwill be printed out.

As previously stated with respect to the gift registry apparatusdescribed above, bar code scanner 40 could be located in a registrant'shome such that the registrant could register for items from multiplemerchants via a catalogue that includes bar codes for the items. Theregistrant would communicate to the kiosk via remote communication, suchas a modem or the InterNet. The term catalog should be understood to benot limited to a physical paper catalog, but also encompasses thingssuch as CD-ROMs, and other data storage devices. In this embodiment, itwould be required that there be a unique bar code for each catalog toidentify the supplier of the particular item. This identifying codecould be on the front cover, the back cover, or somewhere within thecatalog.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, each particularmerchant would assist in updating the information in computer 26 suchthat he computer keeps an accurate list of desired gifts for eachparticular registrant. This may be done in a number of ways. In oneembodiment, the merchant would be in remote communication with thecomputer of kiosk 200 via modem 37. As the prospective purchaser buys agift, the merchant would request the list of gifts generated by the giftregistry system from the prospective purchaser. This list of gifts wouldhave on it a bar code that represents a unique identification code forthe particular registrant. The merchant would then scan in theidentification code, and then scan in the goods being purchased. Thelist of goods for this particular registrant would then be updatedaccordingly in computer 26.

In another embodiment, similar to that just discussed, a merchant wouldsimply ask for the gift list from the prospective purchaser as themerchant is ringing up the sale. The merchant would then manually markwhich items and how many items were purchased on the list. At the end ofthe day, all of the merchants associated with the multi-merchantregistry would deposit them with a system operator or in a slot 302 asseen in FIG. 11. The system operator would then update and/or transmitthe lists of desired gifts for the registrants. It should be noted thatthese are only two examples of how computer 26 may be updated and manyother methods of updating computer 26 may be utilized without departingfrom the spirit or scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 14, another embodiment of a multi-merchant giftregistry system is illustrated. Specifically, a multi-purpose kiosk 300is provided that has at least two distinct functions. For example, kiosk300 may be an automatic teller machine (ATM) or other financial servicestool. In addition, kiosk 300 functions as a gift registry system. Kiosk300 includes a monitor 330 that may include a touch screen 332 for dataentry. An opening 308 is provided and may serve to distribute cash,receipts, or registry printouts. Of course, other openings could beprovided as needed. An access opening 302 can be used to receive afinancial services card such as an ATM card, debit card, credit card ora gift registry card. Coupled with kiosk 300 are one or more portable,hand held bar code scanners 340. Each scanner may include a keypad 310and a display screen 312.

In one embodiment, kiosk 300 functions similarly to the previouslydescribed embodiments. That is, kiosk 300 includes a CPU that operatesboth the ATM and the gift registry, the appropriate communicationslinks, and various databases. Combining such systems allows kiosk 300 tooffer more functions to the consumer and allows the retailer and/orfinancial institution to reduce overall equipment cost and requiredfloor space when providing these services.

In use, a registrant will insert a credit card or otherwise authorizepayment such as by accessing an account via the ATM. The payment orpotential payment serves as a deposit to authorize the release of thehandheld scanner 340 from compartment 306. The registrant will need toprovide various information, as indicated above, to proceed with thegift registry process. Once so provide, the registrant uses scanner 340to select gifts, which are then stored in memory. When scanner 340 isreturned (or through the use of wireless communication) the selecteditems are transferred to kiosk 300 or a printer station (not shown) andprocessed.

Alternatively, kiosk 300 could be configured to require less interactionwith the multi-merchant gift registry. That is, one or more scanners 340are operatively coupled with kiosk 300 and an appropriate deposit may berequired to access scanner 340, but the scanner 340 may be a selfcontained registry system. That is, scanner 340 may incorporate all ofthe required hardware, software and functionality of the multi-storegift registry embodiments previously described. Scanner 340 may includeits own CPU, memory, databases, and communications systems to serve asan independent registry terminal that can communicate with a centralregistry database, through wireless or hardwire communication protocols.This configuration requires less modification of the accompanyingkiosk's alternative function, such as being an ATM or having variousother functions.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a self contained registry scanner 340 isillustrated. Scanner 340 would preferably be coupleable to a printer 400or other output device that can optionally be part of or close to kiosk300. Printer 400 serves to print out a confirmation list for theregistrant and/or a gift list for potential purchasers. Current ATMsalready include a printing function that could be utilized as printer400, with or without further modification. Additionally, scanner 340 cancommunicate with a central registry database 410 via communicationmedium 412. Communication medium 412 may utilize wireless communicationsfacilitated entirely by equipment within scanner 340 or may be hardwired communication device coupled with or forming part of kiosk 300.

FIG. 16 illustrates hand held portable scanner 340 in greater detail.Scanner 340 includes a CPU 420 and associated software to perform thenecessary computing functions. Scanner 340 also includes an appropriateamount of memory 430. Various information may be stored within memory430. For example, various databases may be created and maintained forvarious registrant's lists. Information relating to and identifying eachof the participating merchants may be retained. For example, theregistrant can indicate which merchant items will be selected from sothat scanner 340 can compare the scanned bar codes to the correctdatabase of products. Thus, databases are maintained indicating storeidentification and inventory.

Scanner 340 includes a communication module 440 that allows forcommunication with a centralized registry. As previously noted,communication module 440 can be a wireless platform or a hardwiredconfiguration accessible when stored within kiosk 300. Scanner 340 alsoincludes various data input mechanisms 450, such as an optical scanner452 for scanning bar codes. Additionally, data input mechanisms 450 mayinclude manual inputs 454, such as keypad 310, a touch screen or variousother input mechanisms. Through data input mechanism 450, the registrantcan select a store to scan items in, view and modify a list ofselections made, select quantities of scanned products, enter productswithout scanning, and performing queries such as for availability andpricing. To select the proper store the registrant may type in the nameof the store or an appropriate code identifying the store, select itfrom a list of stores on the display, or scan a bar code identifying thestore. The bar code scanned may be physically displayed near an entranceto the store or any other convenient place. Alternatively, theregistrant may be provided with a printout of barcodes identifying thevarious accessible stores. The registrant then need only scan the barcode on the printout to select the store. Various other store selectionprotocols could also be employed. For example, scanner 340 could detecta signal emitted from a transmitter within the store, uniquelyidentifying that store and causing scanner 340 to automatically selectthat store's database. The transmitter could be a dedicated devicedevoted to the gift registry system or it could be incorporated with anexisting system such as a security device.

An identification sensor 455 may optionally be provided. Identificationsensor 455 may receive a signal from a transmitter located near orwithin a given store or merchant location. The signal can toggle scanner340 to automatically select the appropriate store, in order to choosethe proper database of bar codes. Alternatively, the signal may causescanner 340 to emit an audible or visual signal, such as a beep orflashing light to remind the registrant to select the proper store.

FIG. 17 illustrates the process a registrant may go through in utilizingthe multi-merchant gift registry. Initially, the registrant needs toregister 500 on the system. This simply requires the registrant toprovide information to the system and there are many ways to accomplishthis. For example, the registrant can telephone a CSR (customer salesrepresentative) 502 who will receive and enter the appropriateinformation or an IVR (interactive voice response) system can be used toreceive the same information. Alternatively, the registrant can accessthe registry through an electronic communication network 504, such asthe Internet, to electronically provide information. This can occur byaccessing a particular site and responding to various posed questionswhich can be tailored depending upon the responses received. Theapplicant can enter information 508 at the kiosk 300 either directly orthrough the scanner 340. The registrant could fax or email 506 theappropriate information as well. Thus, in one embodiment, a registrantcould enter a merchant's store and fill out a paper application for theregistry. The information could then be sent in and entered. Theinformation could be sent by electronic medium, such as by fax, email ortelephone of the information could be mailed or otherwise physicallydelivered. Thus, the merchant enjoys the benefits of providing access tothe registry without having to have the equipment located within thestore. The faxed or scanned document can then be manually entered intothe system or automatically processed.

Whatever method is employed, the registrant will typically providecertain basic information 510 such as: name, address, an eventidentifier, date, certain financial information such as credit cardinformation, and a gift delivery address. Various other information canalso be requested. Once received, selected information may be storedwithin a central database 512 that may be accessible by the variousparticipating merchants 514. Optionally, merchants 514 can updateinformation and otherwise maintain 516 their portion of database 512.

At some point in time after registering 500, the registrant will entergift information 518 into the system. The selected gifts may be from oneor more stores participating the multi-store gift registry. Oneconvenient way to enter this information is to use the hand held scanner340 to scan merchandise within a store or other location. To obtainscanner 340, the registrant goes to a convenient kiosk 300 and requestsa scanner. Because of the value of the scanner, it may be prudent torequire the registrant to leave a deposit 520. Since, in someembodiments, kiosk 300 also functions as an ATM, there are various waysto leave the deposit. A credit or debit card may be provided and theinformation may simply be retained or an appropriate amount is actuallycharged against the card. Additionally, money may be transferred fromany account, such as a checking or savings account, that is accessiblefrom the ATM. Alternatively, a local attendant may be provided to acceptother forms of payment and manually gain access to the scanner. Afterreceiving a deposit (if required), access opening 302 opens revealingone or more scanners 340 within compartment 304. Scanner 340 is unlockedand the registrant is able to remove 522 the scanner. Of course, variousother mechanisms may be employed for securing scanner 340 to or withinkiosk 300.

The registrant then proceeds to select a store to begin the registry.For example, the multi-merchant registry may be located within a malland many or all of the mall tenants may participate. The registrant willsimply determine where to begin and then go to that merchant's location.Whenever multiple merchants are participating and each merchant has adifferent database corresponding to the bar codes of their merchandise,the particular merchant location selected must be entered 524 intoscanner 340. Selecting the merchant can occur in any number of ways. Forexample, the registrant may simply scan a bar code physically locatednear or within the store or merchant location. Alternatively, a list ofall participating merchants and identifying bar codes may be provided sothat the registrant can scan the identifying bar code off the sheet. Theregistrant could select the merchant from a list displayed on thescanner or could simply type in a name of the store or merchant. Shouldthe registrant forget to select a merchant or move to another storewithout indicating this, scanner 340 can be configured to periodicallyquery the registrant as to the store or product identification. Asmentioned above, various automatic systems could be employed toelectronically transmit a unique store code to scanner 340 as theregistrant enters the store.

Once the store has been selected, the registrant scans 526 various itemswithin the store that she would like to add to her registry. If an itemdoes not have an associated bar code, the registrant can look that itemup from a list displayed on scanner 340 and select it, or simply typethe item in to select it. An associated quantity is also selected.Should the registrant make an error, the keypad 310 and display screen312 can be used to modify the list of selected items 528. As each itemis scanned, it is associated with a product and stored 530 within memory430 of scanner 340. Associating a bar code with a product requireshaving access to a database of that merchant's products and bar codes.With a self contained scanner 340 that database might be stored locallyin memory 430 or contained within a central database and transmitted tothe scanner when needed. Alternatively, the scanned data is stored in araw format and correlated at a later point. Either upon the completionof the registry or after each item is scanned, data is transmitted todatabase 512 where the registry is maintained.

The registrant may move from merchant to merchant selecting as manyproducts as desired. When finished, scanner 340 is returned to kiosk 300and the deposit is voided, returned or a reimbursement is issued. Storedwithin database 512 is a complete list for the registrant including eachproduct selected and the merchant it was selected from.

The registrant could select products in a variety of other ways 532. Forexample, a catalog may be provided either in a paper format or on-linein an electronic format. Once again, various merchants can be identified(or may have store specific catalogs) and items selected. When on-line,the items can simply be selected with the registrant's computer. With apaper catalog, a scanner may be provided to scan bar codes and eitherthe data is transmitted or the scanner is brought to a kiosk 300.Alternatively, a list or a description of items as well as a desiredmerchant (that is, a given merchant need not participate with themulti-merchant registry and a registrant can still have items from thatmerchant added to their registry) may be selected either by scanning,otherwise electronically providing, or manually providing thedescription of the product of service. This information can be phoned,faxed, emailed or otherwise transferred to the system. Finally, itemsmay be placed on the registry by telephone either through a CSR or IVRsystem. The items chosen are selected and sent 534 to database 512.

Referring to FIG. 18, after gifts are registered for, the registrantinvites 540 guests and makes them aware of the registry 542. This canhappen in a traditional manner. For example, the registrant may inviteguests to a wedding by sending them a formal invitation. The registrantmay simply provide information about the registry by word of mouth ormay include a written description of the registry. Alternatively, thesystem of the present invention can generate cards 544 for theregistrant that are given to the guests. Each card may identify theregistrant and a location of the registry, i.e., the Downtown Mall. Thecard may have encoded information identifying the registrant. Theencoded information may be in the form of a bar code. Finally, the card544 may be fabricated to serve as an invitation to a guest. That is,card 544 may be a document that may come in any shape, size orconfiguration and may include any desired printed matter, including theencoded information.

When utilizing the registry, the guest identifies 548 the appropriateregistrant. This can be done by typing in the registrant's name orselecting it from a list. Alternatively, the card may simply be scannedthereby causing the registrant to be identified to the system. Once soidentified, a list of desired gifts is provided 550 in either an paperor electronic format. The guest may then choose a particular gift from aparticular store and purchase it 552. The guest may make the purchase inperson at the store, on-line through an electronic catalog (where theencoded information can again be used to identify the registrant), orvia telephone through a CSR or IVR system. Once an item is purchased,the registrant's list is updated to reflect that purchase.

One strength of the multi-store gift registry system is the ability toallow a registrant to register for gifts at any number of stores ormerchants that may be physically close together or remote from oneanother. For example, multiple stores within a mall can utilize thesystem, a chain of store may use the system throughout their variousstores, or a number of completely unrelated stores that are physicallyseparated may utilize the system. Thus, the registrant can convenientlyregister for whatever they want and provide easy access to the entireregistry to their guests. However, for various reasons some stores maymaintain their own registry system and do not participate in themulti-store gift registry system. For example, a given store may be verylarge and already has an extensive registry system.

FIG. 19 illustrates how the multi-store gift registry system can furtheract as a universal registry 570 allowing users the convenience ofutilizing both the multi-store registry and the individualizedregistries of other stores. By way of example, assume registrant 572 hasregistered for a number of gifts at one or more stores through themulti-store gift registry described above. That registry is maintainedand updated on database 574. Further assume that Merchant 1 588 andMerchant 2 590 each maintain their own individual gift registries andthat registrant 572 has registered for gifts on both.

Universal registry 570 provides access to registrant 572 to view herregistry and make changes. For example, registrant 572 may access a Website for universal registry 570, enter a unique identifier, and have theregistry presented electronically. Registrant 572 may then select anaggregation function provided. Once selected, universal registry queriesregistrant 572 as to any other registries that have been utilized andwhat the registrant's identification and password information is foreach of those registries. Universal registry 570 then accesses thedesignated registries 576, 578 and provides the registrant's ID andpassword. The registries 576, 578 access their respective databases 580,582 and provide the registry information to universal registry 570.Universal registry 570 then updates its own registry information toinclude the items from the other registries. When a guest 586 lateraccesses universal registry 570, they are provided with a completeregistry, including items selected from stores not necessarilyparticipating in the multi-merchant gift registry.

Guest 586 can simply view the complete registry and then go to anyindividual merchant and purchase the product. As this occurs, merchants588, 590 update their registries and databases 580, 582. Universalregistry 570 periodically accesses these registries 576, 578 and updatesthe universal registry to reflect any purchases made or other changes.Universal registry 570 can also provide a purchase system 584 by whichguest 586 can purchase items off the registry. Purchase system canfunction like any on-line retailer, taking order and payment informationand arranging delivery. However, as universal registry 570 may beestablished to provide registry information and not necessarily toengage in retail transactions, an alternative purchase system 584 may beprovided. Purchase system 584 can take a request to purchase a registryitem from guest 586 along with any level of contact and paymentinformation. This information can then be passed to the appropriatemerchant 588, 590 as a “hot lead.” The merchant can either initiate acommercial transaction with guest 586 if sufficient information andauthorization was provided or may simply contact guest 586 to offer theproduct.

In any event, merchants 588, 590 benefit from the increased traffic tothe on-line site and/or their brick-and-mortar presence and they retainthe ability to sell the registered products. That is, universalregistry, in this embodiment, does not just identify the productsregistered for and try to find alternative sources for the guest topurchase the product. Of course, universal registry could offer such aservice, but it would likely discourage merchants 588, 590 from fullycooperating. Another benefit provided by both the multi-merchantregistry and/or the universal registry 570 is the ability of theregistrant to present their entire registry and all the storedregistered at to each guest. Traditionally, there may have be sometendency on the part of the registrant to “pre-screen” their own guests.That is, registrant's would not inform certain guests that they wereregistered at certain stores that the registrant deemed to be “beneath”the guest or alternatively, they would not inform their guests that theywere registered at stores considered by the registrant to be toextravagant or too expensive. Now, all the information can be providedto all the guests without fear of being presumptuous. The use of a cardhaving registrant specific information also furthers this disseminationand facilitates the use of the universal registry. That is, the card canindicate where to go to physically take advantage of the multi-merchantregistry retailers and can also indicate various Web sites or otherelectronic forums that utilize the universal registry.

By pairing a multi-merchant registry with another utilitarian device,such as an ATM, opportunities for cross-sale marketing can be realized.Referring to FIG. 20, a flowchart is illustrated presenting thecross-sale marketing opportunities offered to a financial institutionwhen the multi-merchant gift registry is paired with that institution'sATMs. As discussed above, the registrant initiates 600 the registrationprocess in any number of ways. Through this process, the registrant willidentify 602 the type of event that they are registering for on thesystem. The system can then determine which products the registrant maybe interested in. In the case of a pairing with an ATM, those productswould typically be financial products offered by the institution. Thesystem will then present a solicitation 604 to the registrant askingthem if they would be interested in receiving information about thevarious targeted products. The registrant may decline 606 thesolicitation and the registration continues 610. If the registrantaccepts the solicitation 606, the information gathered by the registryis provided to the financial institution which will later contact theregistrant to discuss the various financial products.

One common type of registry is a wedding registry. For most couples, awedding is a major life changing event that will require them to makemany decisions and purchases beyond the gift registry. For example, manycouples will buy jewelry, a home, or an automobile. These couples maywant to consolidate debt or banking accounts, obtain financing or othercredit. Thus, these leads can be of tremendous value to the financialinstitution paired with the gift registry system. Of course, at thisparticular time the couple is usually very busy and often overwhelmed.Thus, sorting through the plethora of financial options may seem verydaunting and undesirable. Thus, the system simplifies the process andprovides a direct, low pressure solution. That is, the registrant ispresented with information about products and services they will verylikely need or want and an easy way of obtaining information from thefinancial institution.

With any of the embodiments described above, the registrant willformulate a list of gifts and many guests will purchase and providethose gifts 612. However, in many cases registrants will not receive allof the gifts on their list and they may not receive the gifts they mostwanted. Thus, the multi-merchant gift registry system maintains anupdated registry for the registrant even after the event. Working withthe various merchants, targeted mailings 614 or other solicitation canbe provided to the registrant after the event for those specific itemsselected for the registry that were not purchased by guests. Thus, thesystem provides a unique opportunity for merchants to entice theregistrant to purchase products that the merchant knows the registrantwants. Of course, various special offers or pricing could be offered forfurther entice the registrant. The targeted advertising can take anyform, from traditional paper mailings, electronic advertisements, ortelephone solicitations.

After the event, the cards sent to guests may continue to be utilized ina way that is beneficial to the guest, the retailer, and the registrysystem. The cards can have a unique identifier (such as a bar code thatis scanned at the time of purchase) that identifies the guest to thesystem. Special offers, discounts, or promotions may be offered toencourage people to present their cards when making purchases. Thus,malls or other entities can utilize the card to track the purchasinghabits of individuals even as they move between unrelated stores. Thisallows their purchasing habits to be analyzed and allows for targetedadvertising to be generated. This can also allow malls or other entitiesto track the effectiveness of their various promotions.

It is understood that equivalents are possible within the spirit of thepresent invention and that changes made from the present disclosure, tothe full extent extended by the general meaning of the terms in whichthe appended claims are expressed, are understood to be within theprinciple of the invention.

1. A multi-merchant gift registry system comprising: a portable scanningdevice including a central processing unit, a memory, a communicationmodule, and a data input module wherein registry information is enteredinto the memory and items are entered through the data input module andstored in a database within the memory; and a docking station forsecuring the portable scanning device when the portable scanning deviceis not in use.